A Cavan-Monaghan TD says she "delighted" to confirm that Parent's Leave and Benefit which was extended from 5 weeks for each parent to 7 weeks in Budget 2022 came into effect at the start of the month.
Deputy Niamh Smyth "strongly" believes the first few weeks and months spent with a new-born baby is "so important," and is pleased that the extension has now come into effect from July 1st.
The Fianna Fail representative says the additional two weeks leave and benefit will apply to parents of children who are under age 2 in July 2022 or in the case of adoption, children who have been with their parents for fewer than two years at that point.
She added that Parent's Benefit is currently paid at €250 a week and can be paid in "separate weekly blocks" or can be paid over a "consecutive period."